At the initiative of the EU Corner at the Sombor Educational Center, and in partnership with the Europe House Novi Sad, the city of Sombor hosted a series of educational activities for children and young people from November 25 to December 10. The programs focused on gender equality, the prevention of peer violence, and active citizenship.
Activities were organized as part of the global campaign “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” which this year places special emphasis on violence in the digital sphere.
The program cycle opened on November 25 with a workshop titled “Gender Equality and the Prevention of Peer Violence” aimed at young people aged 15 to 30. Participants discussed identity, gender roles, stereotypes, and the legal framework designed to protect young people from various forms of violence. Particular attention was given to recognizing and responding to violence in everyday life and online environments, with young people actively engaged through discussions and the analysis of real-life scenarios.
A series of workshops titled “Listeners’ Club – What Is Music Telling Us?” was also held, bringing together young people interested in music as a tool for social change. Through the analysis of song lyrics, bands, and albums that address gender equality and broader social values, participants explored how music shapes attitudes and emotions.
“The Listeners’ Club deserves nothing but praise,” said Strahinja Lovrić, a peer educator and workshop participant. “Young people showed strong interest — they are willing to think critically, have fun, and at the same time learn something new, broaden their perspectives, and expand their musical tastes. We had 17 participants, all young and creative, and I believe this activity has a bright future.”
The workshop “Young People and Global Challenges: How to Understand the World and Change the Local Community?” was held on November 27 and focused on global education and the role of young people in decision-making processes. Participants were introduced to examples of good practice in Serbia in the fields of gender equality and violence prevention, as well as to ways in which they can play a more active role in shaping public policies in their local communities.
As part of the campaign, a total of nine events were organized, two of which were dedicated to children through the workshop “Drama as a Path to Understanding: Children on Gender Equality and Nonviolence” aimed at primary school students. Using drama and theater techniques, children explored themes of nonviolent communication, empathy, and understanding diversity in an accessible and creative way, learning about the consequences of behavior through play and collaborative creation.
EU Delegation to the Republic of Serbia has joined the campaign “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,” which this year focuses on combating violence in the digital sphere — a phenomenon that is becoming increasingly widespread and dangerous. Despite decades of progress, one in three women worldwide experiences violence.
Digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, are accelerating the emergence of new forms of abuse, such as image-based exploitation, deepfake content, gender-based disinformation, and coordinated online harassment.
By raising awareness, strengthening support systems, and ensuring the inclusion of all women and girls in all their diversity, a safer digital space can be built for everyone.
The campaign runs from November 25 to December 10.
